Casado, Bardghji start in a 4-2-3-1 – How Barcelona can line up against Girona | OneFootball

Barcelona are back in La Liga action with a match against Girona after a challenging international break that left many of their key players sidelined due to injuries.

The so-called “FIFA virus” has once again disrupted the squad, with Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Dani Olmo all unavailable for this weekend’s clash against Girona.

These absences put Hansi Flick in a difficult position as he tries to field a competitive side.

Girona, on the other hand, comes into this match on a slightly better note. They secured their first win of the season against Valencia before the league paused for the international break, but they still sit second from the bottom of the table.

Barcelona, the reigning La Liga champions and just two points behind Real Madrid, are returning to competition with a depleted attack.

After a poor run, including a heavy setback against Sevilla just days after losing to PSG (1-2) without their starting forward, Flick has plenty to consider for his starting lineup.

On that note, here we take a look at how Barcelona could lineup against Girona.

Defence

Eric Garcia could return to the starting XI. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Barcelona face another defensive challenge as both Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Joan Garcia remain sidelined. This makes it certain that Wojciech Szczesny will be guarding the goal for the Blaugrana.

In defence, Flick has more options. A likely arrangement could see Eric Garcia and Pau Cubarsi forming the centre-back pair, with Jules Kounde as the right-back and Gerard Martin on the left.

Additionally, Flick may use Alejandro Balde in a special role, giving the team more attacking options from the back while keeping defensive stability.

With these adjustments, Barcelona hope to keep Girona forwards in check despite missing several key players.

Midfield

Pedri is irreplaceable. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

In midfield, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri remain untouchable for now, as their presence is crucial to controlling the game and dictating the pace.

A key question is where Fermin Lopez will feature. If he does not start, Marc Casado could pair with De Jong in a double pivot, while Pedri takes up a more advanced attacking midfield role.

Another option is to bring in La Masia graduate Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernandez. He started against Real Sociedad earlier this season and has impressed in training under Flick.

If integrated into the starting XI, De Jong and Pedri would maintain the pivot roles, with Dro adding creativity and fresh energy in attack.

Attack

Alejandro Balde could feature in the attack. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The attacking line is where Flick will have to make the biggest changes. With Lewandowski and Ferran Torres out, summer signing Marcus Rashford is the most likely candidate to lead the line as centre-forward.

On the wings, if Lamine Yamal is rested in the opening minutes, Roony Bardghji could fill the right side. Meanwhile, with Raphinha unavailable, Alejandro Balde could move forward to contribute offensively on the left wing.

Even with a weakened squad, Barcelona will aim to impose their style of play and secure all three points.

Flick’s ability to make the right tactical choices could be crucial to overcoming Girona’s determined side.